The theme of the upcoming Seminar is The Best Get Better. It’s one of the most dynamic business events in the roofing industry, where “the best” wisdom, problem solving, encouragement, networking – and fun – will come together over the course of a jam-packed three days.

This annual event honors authorized Duro-Last roofing contractors for their sales achievements during the previous year, and provides a forum for the exchange of ideas that can improve business operations, gain product proficiency, expand market opportunities, and drive sales success.

Since our beginning, Duro-Last has recognized the value of community involvement. So once again we will be recognizing contractors who have been active in making the world healthier, safer, and stronger, in our “Partners in Goodwill” program. It will be our privilege to pay tribute to these exemplary citizens during our event.

The popular Roofers’ Challenge is back! Teams will have the opportunity to show off their installation skills and compete in this educational and fun event. Teams are judged on accuracy, aesthetics, speed, and workmanship.

Although ongoing economic challenges confront the construction industry, Duro-Last contractors continue to demonstrate a solid commitment to our business and to providing exceptional value and service to their customers. We take great pride in honoring them at this event.

As each year goes by, we are more appreciative of the great team that makes Duro-Last Roofing the industry leader that we are. This has been especially true in 2010, despite the economic challenges that everyone faced. We are proud of our team that has delivered exceptional results for 2010.

We want to wish you and yours the best of holidays. We sincerely believe that family comes first, and hope that you will have many opportunities to enjoy good times with your loved ones. As you celebrate, please keep in mind that there are many around us who are not as fortunate. We encourage you to help those in your community who may be in need.

Okay, so you installed a cool roofing system, but since the building already had so much insulation you haven’t noticed any energy savings. What’s the point?

True. High reflectivity is a key characteristic that helps keep buildings cooler and can reduce energy usage. As much as 40% less cooling energy may be needed for buildings that have highly-reflective roofs. But even if a building is very well insulated, here are some other valuable benefits from cool roofing:

Insulation can be 25%-50% more effective

Studies have shown that extremely high temperatures reduce the effective R-value of the most widely used types of insulation (Leonard & Leonard, 2005). Cooler surfaces help preserve and keep rooftop insulation materials cooler.

HVAC equipment can operate more efficiently

Inlet air temperatures can be 5-15 degrees cooler 30 inches above a cool roofing surface compared to a black surface. Most rooftop HVAC units are designed with efficiency ratings evaluated at 95°F (York International, 2005); rooftop temperatures on a black surface can reach 160°F or higher, meaning that HVAC units will not operate at peak efficiency.

Substrate deterioration may be slowed by as much as 75%

Ultraviolet and infrared radiation and moisture penetration accelerate substrate deterioration. A cool roofing system will reflect this radiation and help protect the substrate (Kirn et. Al., 1994).

Ambient interior temperatures can be up to 20°F cooler than outside

Studies of worker performance with machine operation and high physical activity reveal that productivity drops 10% at 84°F and 38% at 95°F (Schweisheimer, W., 1962). So even if a building is not air conditioned occupants will still notice improved comfort on hot days.